The German Cup clash between Mannheim and Kaiserslautern descended into total chaos. Rioting and clashes between fans and police left 85 people injured, including 35 members of the security forces, according to an initial toll announced by the local police.
Played on Friday evening, the match was halted for around half an hour after the end of normal time with the score goalless. When it resumed amid a tense atmosphere, Kaiserslautern snatched qualification with a last-gasp goal in the 120th minute.
Rioting halts the match
Authorities had classified the tie as high-risk. Mannheim compete in the third division, Kaiserslautern in the second, and the two clubs share an intense rivalry rooted in cities separated by around 50 kilometres in western Germany.
Kaiserslautern fans launched flares towards the main stand, according to police, before Mannheim fans stormed the pitch.
Police intervened in large numbers on the pitch, using force to push the fans back towards the stand designated for the home supporters. Only then could the referee resume the match.
85 injured, including 35 police officers
Mannheim police said in a statement carried by the RMC network: "At present, 33 members of the federal police, along with two officers from the state of Baden-Württemberg, have sustained minor injuries."
It added: "A total of 85 people had to receive medical care, and 8 of them were transported to hospital for further treatment."
Security was heavy throughout. Around 1,400 officers were brought in to police this derby, a fixture that carries great sensitivity given the rivalry between the two clubs.
You can discuss the topics and news in greater depth in the Kooora forums
Investigations after the rioting
German authorities have already launched several investigations in the wake of the events.
Those investigations cover accusations of insult, causing various physical injuries, damage to property, disturbing public order and committing violence against police officers, along with breaches of the laws on materials and explosives, police explained.
The chaos in the stands and on the pitch did not stop the game reaching its conclusion. Kaiserslautern booked their place in the next round of the German Cup with a goal in the 120th minute.